Final answer:
The correct approach to taking vital signs on an infant is to use a stethoscope while the parent holds the child, allowing for accurate assessment of heart rate and respiration.
Step-by-step explanation:
To take vital signs on an infant, the medical assistant should use the stethoscope to listen to the heart and lungs while the parent holds the child. This approach allows the medical professional to accurately assess the heart rate and respiration of the infant, which are critical components of the Apgar score, a quick and simple method to gauge the newborn's well-being immediately after birth. The Apgar score evaluates five criteria: appearance (skin color), pulse (heart rate), grimace (reflex), activity (muscle tone), and respiration, with heart rate and respiration being the most crucial for the infant's immediate health status.
Utilizing a stethoscope for auscultation directly on the infant's chest while in the parent's arms creates a calm environment and often results in a more reliable assessment. It is important for the medical assistant to be gentle and soothing during the process to minimize stress for both the infant and the parent. Documenting these vital signs accurately in the medical chart is also essential for tracking the child's developmental progress and health.